Umami Red MC Cartridge

The Umami Red moving coil cartridge combines brilliant materials and classic Japanese techniques with modern audio engineering. Ebony wood, rare-earth magnets, precision-cut diamond, high-purity copper wires, Urushi lacquering, and CNC machined Duralumin synergize under the vision of Hana designer Okada-san.

There is a synergistic relationship in MC generators between magnet, armature, and coil windings. This is a critical aspect of outstanding cartridge design and like a signature dish at a Michelin 3-star restaurant, every element and detail working in concert results in a memorable and emotional experience.

All the major parts in a HANA-Umami Red are manufactured in house by Excel Sound with its rich history spanning over 50 years. Excel’s highly trained craftsmen skillfully hand assemble the HANA-Umami Red ensuring an intensely musical experience furthering the HANA “Brilliant and Gorgeous” sound quality.

CHASSIS
Body Material: Duralumin (A7075), Ebony Wood
Body Finish: Urushi Lacquer (Red), Gloss

MECHANICAL
Cantilever: Boron
Stylus Shape: Microline Nude Diamond
Coil Wiring: High Purity Copper
Parts Material: Pure Iron
Magnet: Samarium Cobalt

ELECTRICAL
Coil Impedance: 6Ω
Output Voltage: 0.4mV
Channel Balance: 30dB @ 1kHz
Recommended Load: ≥60 Ω

SETUP
Frequency Response: 10Hz-50kHz
Recommended Tracking Force: ~2gms
Compliance: 10
Weight: 10.5gms

In Japan, Umami describes the taste that signals protein in food. Recognized as one of the five basic tastes—alongside salty, sweet, bitter, and sour—it’s often described as rich, savory, and deeply satisfying.

Considered to be one of the five basic tastes (which also includes salty, sweet, bitter and sour) Umami is best understood as being both rich and savory. Here in the US we might be more familiar with the terms "hearty" or "meaty", but of course, we might also use "lip smacking good".

Much like the flavor they're named after, Hana's Umami series cartridges deliver a warm, rich and flavorful vinyl experience crafted to satisfy!